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Wells running dry at Crimea Safari Park

Low water levels in a Crimean reservoir signal hardship for animals at a safari park caught in the political crossfire. Deborah Lutterbeck reports.

TRANSCRIPT +

A lion takes a drink of water at a safari park in Crimea.
With water supplies running low -- these animals are now at risk -- caught in the political crossfire.
Every drop counts with caretakers unsure how long supplies will last.
Seals are forced to bathe in almost empty pools -- this comes after Russia annexed Crimea last year, prompting Ukraine to cut water supplies.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) MANAGER OF SAFARI PARK, OLEG ZUBKOV, SAYING:
"There is literally just several weeks' supply left. This is the only means of existence of the Taigan Lion Park, where more than 2,500 animals live. And they need a lot of water, Plus, there will be visitors soon in the spring, and we will have to open the toilets, and a cafe. Unfortunately we do not have water for that."
This means for the animals in the park -- a cruel winter could be followed by a lethal summer.

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